“Even the guys and I take a catnap sometimes,” Rory said.
“Oh, the 7-layer bars should have cooled down by now.”Florence got up from the couch.
Frank did too.
“Does everyone want some?Or we can have some of the cookies and candies we got for Christmas.”Florence went into the kitchen to cut up the 7-layer bars.
“I’m all in on the bars.Does anyone want milk?”Rory brought out some glasses.
“Milk for me,” Frank said, everyone agreeing.
They all took their Christmas tree plates with the magic bars and glasses of milk to the table.
As soon as Lacy took a bite of hers, she moaned with pleasure.“Now these are so good.It has to be a family tradition from now on.”
“I agree with Lacy.I’ve never had these before.They’re great.”Rory ate more of his.
“Decadent.”Frank took another bite.“And so easy to make, even I can do it.”
Lacy chuckled.“You’re a good cook.You were just not used to the coffee shop’s kitchen, oven temperature, and all the distractions.”
They finished their magic bars and then cleaned up.
They checked out the windows.It was still snowing like crazy, with whiteout conditions a few feet out from the windows, and the wind still howling like an uncontrolled icy beast.
“I’m glad we’re here,” Lacy said, cuddling with Rory.
“Yeah, me too.The guys will give me grief when I get back for taking an extended work break over Christmas, but—” Rory squeezed Lacy.
“It couldn’t be helped, and we’re thrilled you’re here,” Florence said.
“We sure are,” Frank said.
“I’m glad that no one else had to stay with us for protection.They would have been separated from their family until the blizzard ends, and we can unbury ourselves,” Rory said.
The snow was piled up on the front porch halfway up the windows.It would be a bear to clear off the driveway, the porch, even Rory’s pickup.
“Time for bed?”Rory asked.
“Yeah, it’s time.”Lacy was ready.
Frank and Florence headed for the stairs too.Florence turned off the lights downstairs, and they all went up the stairs.
“Merry Christmas,” Florence said to everyone.
A chorus of “merry Christmas,” followed.
Then they all retired to their respective bedrooms.
“That was a really great Christmas,” Rory said.
“I agree.”Lacy removed her clothes and climbed into bed.
Rory quickly joined her, and they were back to kissing and making love.
Frank woketo find Florence had left the bed.It was four in the morning, but he didn’t hear her in the bathroom or downstairs.
He put on the new green pajamas that Florence had gotten him, featuring a cougar in a Santa’s hat, and a pair of furry slippers.Then he left the room and descended the stairs.
